CIVIL WEDDINGS

Reading/Music

For those couples looking to include a reading or piece of music, this point in the ceremony provides the first real opportunity to do so. As you will have already gathered, you will need to confirm with your Registrar prior to the day that both this slot in the Service, and the reading/piece of music that you have in mind, are suitable. Once approval is gained, it is at this point that your chosen guest or professional performer will take centre stage. For some ideas on readings and music, check out the articles entitled Music, Songs and Readings.

The Civil Marriage Declarations

The Registrar will then ask both the Bride and Groom stand and to confirm that they are free to marry using one of the three versions that have been agreed prior to the day – the choices are as follows:

1. "I do solemnly declare that I know not of any lawful impediment why I, Maxwell Jacob, may not be joined in matrimony to Jennifer Louise."
2. "I declare that I know of no legal reason why I, Maxwell Jacob, may not be joined in marriage to Jennifer Louise."
3. By replying, "I am", to the question: 'Are you Maxwell Jacob free lawfully to marry Jennifer Louise?'

Contracting Words: After the declaration, the contracting words will be spoken and again there are a few choices to choose from:

1. "‘I call upon these persons here present to witness that  I, Maxwell/Jennifer, do take thee Maxwell/Jennifer, to be my lawful wedded husband/wife.”
2. “I call upon these persons here present to witness that I, Maxwell/Jennifer, take you, Maxwell/Jennifer, to be my wedded husband/wife”.
3. “I call upon these persons here present to witness that I, Maxwell/Jennifer, take thee, Maxwell/Jennifer, to be my wedded husband/wife”.